Summary:
Safaricom has revised M-PESA transaction fees for 2025. Knowclick Media breaks down the updated charges for sending money, withdrawals at agents, ATM fees, and free services. We also compare M-PESA with Airtel Money and T-Kash to help you choose the most affordable mobile money option.
Introduction
M-PESA remains the backbone of Kenya’s digital payments, with over 30 million active users. In 2025, Safaricom updated its M-PESA charges to align with financial inclusion efforts and regulatory changes. Whether you’re sending money, withdrawing cash, or using an ATM, knowing the updated M-PESA charges for 2025 helps you save money and plan transactions better.
M-PESA Sending Charges 2025
Sending money through M-PESA depends on the amount and whether the recipient is registered or unregistered.
Sending to Registered Users
Amount Range (Kshs) | Transfer Fee (Kshs) |
|---|---|
1 – 49 | Free |
50 – 100 | Free |
101 – 500 | 7 |
501 – 1,000 | 13 |
1,001 – 1,500 | 23 |
1,501 – 2,500 | 33 |
2,501 – 3,500 | 53 |
3,501 – 5,000 | 57 |
5,001 – 7,500 | 78 |
7,501 – 10,000 | 90 |
10,001 – 15,000 | 100 |
15,001 – 20,000 | 105 |
20,001 – 35,000 | 108 |
35,001 – 50,000 | 108 |
50,001 – 250,000 | 108 |
Note: Sending Kshs 1–100 is free, supporting low-value transactions.
M-PESA Withdrawal Charges at Agents (2025)
Withdrawing cash from an M-PESA agent attracts the following fees:
Amount Range (Kshs) | Withdrawal Fee (Kshs) |
|---|---|
1 – 49 | N/A (not allowed) |
50 – 100 | 11 |
101 – 500 | 29 |
501 – 1,000 | 29 |
1,001 – 1,500 | 29 |
1,501 – 2,500 | 29 |
2,501 – 3,500 | 52 |
3,501 – 5,000 | 69 |
5,001 – 7,500 | 87 |
7,501 – 10,000 | 115 |
10,001 – 15,000 | 167 |
15,001 – 20,000 | 185 |
20,001 – 35,000 | 197 |
35,001 – 50,000 | 278 |
50,001 – 250,000 | 309 |
Reminder: Withdrawals below Kshs 50 are not permitted.
M-PESA ATM Withdrawal Charges 2025
Amount Range (Kshs) | ATM Fee (Kshs) |
|---|---|
200 – 2,500 | 35 |
2,501 – 5,000 | 69 |
5,001 – 10,000 | 115 |
10,001 – 35,000 | 203 |
Free M-PESA Services in 2025
The following services remain free:
- Deposits
- Buying airtime through M-PESA
- Balance inquiries
- Changing M-PESA PIN
- M-PESA registration
Key M-PESA Limits in 2025
- Maximum account balance: Kshs 500,000
- Maximum daily transaction limit: Kshs 500,000
- Maximum amount per transaction: Kshs 250,000
- Minimum withdrawal at agent outlets: Kshs 50
For self-reversal, forward the M-PESA message to 456 free of charge.
M-PESA vs Airtel Money vs T-Kash Charges (2025)
Here’s a quick look at how M-PESA compares with competitors:
Service | Sending Kshs 1,000 | Withdrawal Kshs 1,000 |
|---|---|---|
M-PESA | 13 | 29 |
Airtel Money | 11 | 25 |
T-Kash | 10 | 26 |
Insight: Airtel Money and T-Kash offer slightly lower rates, but M-PESA remains the most widely accepted across Kenya.
How to Save on M-PESA Transaction Costs
- Combine Transactions → Instead of many small transfers, send one larger amount.
- Use Free Services → Buy airtime directly through M-PESA at no cost.
- Check Charges Regularly → Safaricom updates fees from time to time.
- Leverage Agents & ATMs Smartly → Withdraw amounts that minimize fees.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the free services on M-PESA in 2025?
Deposits, airtime purchases, PIN changes, and balance inquiries are free.
What is the maximum daily transaction limit?
You can transact up to Kshs 500,000 per day.
Can I deposit directly into another person’s M-PESA account?
No, deposits must be made into your own account first.
How much does it cost to withdraw Kshs 5,000 from M-PESA?
Withdrawing Kshs 5,000 at an agent costs Kshs 69.
How do I reverse money sent to the wrong number?
Forward the message to 456 immediately. Reversal is free.
Conclusion
M-PESA’s 2025 charges reflect Safaricom’s commitment to financial inclusion and transparency. By understanding these fees, comparing with alternatives, and applying smart cost-saving tips, Kenyans can continue to benefit from the convenience of M-PESA without unnecessary costs.
